University of Leicester lecturer named as finalist at The Global Space Awards 2025
A University of Leicester lecturer’s achievement in reaching the final of The Global Space Awards 2025 has been projected 37km above Earth in a symbolic announcement in the stratosphere.
Dr Beatriz Sanchez-Cano, from the University of Leicester’s School of Physics and Astronomy has been recognised for her leadership of the Mars Magnetosphere Atmosphere Ionosphere and Space-weather Science( M-MATISSE) mission, a European Space Agency Medium class (M7) candidate study exploring Mars’ upper atmosphere and its complex interactions with space weather.
The Global Space Awards, organised by the Global Space Awards CIC in partnership with Sent Into Space, celebrate outstanding achievements in space exploration and innovation.
Since Saturday, November 8, the names of each of the 50 finalists across eight categories have been shining from the edge of space in the Earth’s stratosphere in a symbolic announcement highlighting the boundary between Earth and space where human curiosity meets discovery.
Sanjeev Gordhan, of the Global Space Awards CIC, said: “There is no more fitting way to recognise these distinguished nominees than by honouring them from the very threshold of space.
Through advanced high-altitude balloon technology, Sent Into Space enables us to project their achievements into the cosmos — celebrating those whose work continues to propel discovery, innovation, and technological advancement in the field of space exploration.”
Dr Sanchez-Cano’s M-MATISSE mission focuses on understanding how solar activity affects Mars’ atmosphere.
Using data from multiple spacecraft, M-MATISSE aims to provide vital insights into how charged particles and solar wind shape the Martian environment. This research not only deepens our understanding of Mars but also helps prepare for future human and robotic missions.
Speaking about the recognition, Dr Beatriz Sanchez-Cano said: “I’m incredibly honoured to be a finalist for the Global Space Awards. The M-MATISSE mission has been a true team effort, combining expertise from across disciplines to better understand how the Martian atmosphere responds to space weather.
“This recognition highlights the importance of international collaboration and innovative science in uncovering the mysteries of our planetary neighbours.”
The Global Space Awards ceremony will take place on Friday, December 5, at the Natural History Museum in London, celebrating individuals and organisations leading progress in space science, technology, and sustainability.
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